In a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and infrastructure development, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, laid the e-foundation and virtually inaugurated multiple road projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in Kathua district.
The primary focus of these initiatives is to improve connectivity in the district and contribute to the overall development of the region. Dr Jitendra Singh laid the foundation stone for the upgradation of the 5,700 km Hamirpur to Gurah Suraj via Ambala road, block Barnoti of district Kathua in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The sanctioned cost of this road is Rs. 612.29 lakh.
Additionally, the Minister inaugurated four road projects spanning more than 25 km, with a total cost of Rs. 2,594 lakh crore, and laid the e-foundation for the same. Furthermore, he virtually inaugurated nine roads covering 73.57 km, amounting to Rs. 5,406.68 lakh in cost. The construction of these roads is expected to benefit 74 habitations, connecting approximately 11,561 people.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted that 60-65 per cent of PMGSY road projects allotted this year to Jammu and Kashmir, at a cost exceeding Rs 3,700 crore, belong to his Lok Sabha Parliamentary constituency. He emphasized that these initiatives play a crucial role in connecting far-flung areas with all-weather roads, significantly improving the lives of the people residing in these regions. Work is progressing rapidly to complete the remaining projects, he assured.
Underlining the importance of improved road connectivity for national development, Dr Singh stated that it plays a pivotal role in the effective implementation of various schemes related to agriculture, health, and education. This, he noted, aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed India by the year 2047. He emphasized that the education and health of children are vital elements contributing to the nation’s progress, propelling it into the league of developed countries.
The e-foundation laying and virtual inauguration of these road projects mark a significant stride towards bolstering infrastructure and connectivity in Kathua district, bringing about positive socio-economic changes in the region.
